There is no denying it, Christmas is actually around the corner. After the last few full and busy months with trips to hot sunny countries I am at last ready to unpack my bag and stow my passport away. I have been extremely fortunate to have had several foreign Christmas’s, including last year in the middle east. I always relish the chance to experience a different culture although I am not sure that the festive period was the perfect time to visit a dry country, I do enjoy the odd tipple to celebrate the holidays.
Due to my nomadic style lifestyle I have never spent long enough in my flat or lodgings to warrant investing in a Christmas tree. This year is a significant step towards my growing up, I have just bought my first ever tree. In the past it has been suggested that I make things easier and purchase a fold up reusable plastic one, that has never been an option. I have waited long enough for this moment, I am not going to cheat now, and anyway it is all about that gorgeous pine smell, it spells Christmas for me.
Whilst I have been enjoying wearing my Christmas jumper, wrtiting cards, wrapping presents and decorating my tree I have not forgotten our fellow Brits in the north of the country who have been escaping their homes as they watch their possesions being washed away by the floods. This time of year can really test communities, it is impossible to imagine the devestation those residents in Cumbria must be expereincing. I know I am not alone in dreaming of a white Christmas, yet after witnessing the result of that storm my perspective has changed. I will do my best to appreciate being at home and spending Christmas with my family, irrelevant of the weather or what presents are waiting under the tree.
